Top New Release Football Boots - Week 4 2009

Pro Direct Soccer's Top new release football boots are here! This exclusive video shows you this week's top 5 most popular football boots. These are the most in demand football boots around at the moment, the ones that YOU are sporting up and down the country and across the globe!

#5 Mizuno Ghost Striker silver/orange

#4 Puma v1.08 FG red/black

#3 Nike T90 Strike II EC08

#2 Nike Mercurial Vapor IV FG

#1 adidas Predator Control SG

All of these boots and hundreds more are available now from The Bootroom at prodirectsoccer.com

Mercurial Vapor Superfly

Mercurial Vapor V

Adebayor - Virtual Reality

Emmanuel Adebayor trains his virtual-self for Live Season Fifa 09

Bootspotter - Chelsea

Training grounds are the Mecca for boot fans and the bootspotter manages to find an undetected hole through the hedge in Chelseas. He gets some priceless boot spots of Lampard and Ballack before an ambitious hideout in a tree goes wrong.

Rio Ferdinand Hails 'Businesslike' Manchester United

Manchester United skipper Rio Ferdinand is delighted with his team's current form, and wants them to continue with their brisk momentum right up until the end of the season.

The Red Devils are chasing an unprecedented 'quadruple' of Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup, a feat never matched in England, although Celtic, of Scotland, managed such a feat in 1967, the year before United won their first European Cup.

Ferdinand has highighted the efficiency and professionalism in the current United squad, as they have overcome the adversity of a crowded fixture schedule and a long injury list to overhaul Liverpool at the top of the table in the last week.

"It is just about continuing what we have been doing. I think we have been very tight of late. We have got players who are very businesslike at the moment," Ferdiand explained to The Manchester Evening News today.

"The players want to get the job done, score goals, want to defend - and defend for our lives - and keep clean sheets.

"With that form, you are onto a good thing, but medals haven't been handed out yet so we are not going to get ahead of ourselves. We set ourselves a target, we have got to where we wanted to be at this stage, and we need to continue that now."

The commanding centre-back has missed 11 games this season due to a niggling back injury, allowing youngsters such as Jonny Evans to step into the breach and excel, but Rio remains confident that the injury can be managed effectively as he looks to help drive the side on to yet another successful season.

"I could have played a little bit longer at West Brom but the manager brought me off. I am fine. There are no problems," he added.

"I've just got to keep on top of it, keep working hard and keep doing my training, and continue to be injury free hopefully."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Atlético Madrid President: Sergio Agüero Is Staying

Enrique Cerezo left no doubts today about the future of Sergio Agüero after he declared that the Argentine striker is not going anywhere.

When asked about the future of the player, the Atlético Madrid president confirmed that he is absolutely sure that he will not leave the club.

"The truth is that I do not even know the cancellation clause on the contract of Agüero, but is not something that worries me at this time", he told Marca.

"I am very clear, very clear, that he is going to continue with Atlético Madrid, you [the press] are the ones that do not see clearly.

" A clearly frustrated Cerezo then went on to discuss the rumours concerning Real Madrid’s rumoured move for Agüero, saying that at the moment everyone is calm, and he doesn't care what their arch-rivals are doing.

"Atlético Madrid are very relaxed about the matter; at this moment we only have the problem of results," he began. "It does not matter to me who is going to be the president of the Real Madrid, nor if they speak about signing Agüero.

I do ask that you do not ask this question every 24 hours though." Despite the strong words from the president there is no doubt that things are not great at the club right now and, should they finish outside of the top four, they will find it hard to hold onto Agüero.

However, Cerezo insisted that there is no crisis at the club, and that he is fully behind coach Javier Aguirre. "I am absolutely behind the coach,” he assured. “I have not listened to the statements of Forlán, but what the players say is true.

I believe that they are the ones who need to show what they are really worth. This is a very strong team and the last results have been because of everyone, however, there is no crisis.

" The president also spoke briefly about the upcoming Champions League match with Porto and, whilst he declared he is not thinking about it, he says he is confident his side will progress.

"For the time being, I am not concerned with the game against Porto, as we have the match on Sunday against Valladolid. I know that the team is mentally prepared though and will get through," he concluded.

James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com

Cudicini makes Tottenham switch

Tottenham have completed the signing of goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini on a free transfer from Chelsea.

The 35-year-old joined the Blues on loan in 1999 from Italian side Castel Di Sangro and signed a permanent deal a year later, costing the club £130,000.

Cudicini will provide competition for Heurelho Gomes who has been the subject of much criticism this season.

"Chelsea can confirm Carlo Cudicini has signed for Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer," read a Chelsea statement.

"The club would like to take this opportunity to thank Carlo for his years of service and wish him well."

Tottenham paid PSV Eindhoven £7m for Brazilian Gomes in the summer and he struggled with his form initially before a string of improved displays.

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp, who also signed defender Pascal Chimbonda from Sunderland on Monday, has been looking for a goalkeeper after releasing reserve team keeper Cesar Sanchez earlier this month.

Voted Chelsea Player of the Year in 2002, Cudicini has found his chances limited since Petr Cech's arrival in 2004.

"I'm really happy to be here to take on this new challenge and I'm really looking forward to being part of this great team and great club," said Cudicini.

In total, he made 208 starts for Chelsea and he featured four times this season, most recently in the 1-1 FA Cup draw with Southend on 3 January.

Meanwhile, Tottenham have agreed the transfer of Hossam Ghaly to Saudi Arabian side Nassr Saudi Club.

The 27-year-old Egyptian midfielder joined Spurs in January 2006 from Dutch side Feyenoord and made 34 appearances, scoring three times.

He was booed by Spurs fans as he warmed up among the substitutes in the FA Cup win over Wigan on 2 January.

Ghaly has not played for the first team since May 2007 when he threw down his shirt in anger when he was replaced after coming on as a substitute.

source

Tottenham Re-Sign Pascal Chimbonda

Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp has made his fourth signing of the January transfer window after acquiring Pascal Chimbonda from Sunderland, according to Sky Sports.

It will be the second time that Chimbonda will be unveiled as a Spurs player, as he was initially brought to White Hart Lane in 2006, only to leave for Sunderland last summer.

He has re-joined the lilywhites after only six months at the Black Cats for an undisclosed fee, expected to be in the region of £3 million.

Chimbonda is the fourth right back that Tottenham have signed in the past 12 months.

Alan Hutton (£8 million), Chris Gunter (£4 million), and Vedran Corluka (£8 million) have all failed to make the full back berth their own. With the purchase of Chimbonda, Tottenham will have spent over £23 million on right backs alone in the last year.

The 29-year old has received one international cap, and signs for Spurs on the same day that Redknapp has secured the free transfer of Italian goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini.

The club are yet to comment on the Chimbonda swoop, but regarding the Cudicini transfer, a statement on tottenhamhotspur.com said: "We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with Chelsea for the transfer of Carlo Cudicini to the Club."

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

Ibrahimovic: Inter Milan not Ibra-dependent

26.01.09 | tribalfootball.com

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is pleased with Inter Milan's victory over Sampdoria.

Watching from the stands, the super Swede declared: "It shows that Inter are not 'Ibra-dependent'.

"Whoever plays, you always expect them to do their very best. Even the players not in the team.

"Now I am rested and looking forward to our next game on Wednesday."

Search: Inter's Adriano banned for three matches for punch

MILAN - Inter Milan striker Adriano has been banned for three matches after throwing a punch in Sunday's 1-0 win over Sampdoria, the Italian league said on Monday.

The incident involving Samp's Daniele Gastaldello in the penalty area was missed by the referee but a league statement said the decision had been reached using television evidence.

Adriano scored the winner on the stroke of halftime to re-establish Inter's three-point lead at the top of Serie A despite a nervous display.

The big Brazilian has been in and out of the Inter side this season after irritating coach Jose Mourinho with a perceived lack of commitment.

Mourinho has also been banned for Wednesday's game at Catania after being sent from the dugout just before Adriano's goal for arguing with the officials.

Sweden forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic missed the Samp game through suspension but is available again for the trip to Sicily.

AC Milan's Ronaldinho was suspended for three Italian Cup games earlier this month after television replays showed him throwing an elbow in the 2-1 defeat by Lazio in the last 16.

source

Barcelona's Messi: I could leave like Ronaldinho

26.01.09 | tribalfootball.com

Lionel Messi cannot guarantee he will spend his career with Barcelona.

The Argentine whiz saw good friend Ronaldinho forced to leave Barca last summer for AC Milan and said: "It is not impossible (I could leave). Look what happened to Ronnie.

"In the last year, he was not happy, and that's not because he wanted to leave."

For now, however, Messi is adamant: "I came here at 13 years of age and this club gave everything to me and my family. The affection of the fans is most important and I do not intend to go anywhere."

Real Madrid star Javier Saviola to join Portsmouth on loan

By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 6:01 PM on 26th January 2009

Argentine international Javier Saviola is set to join Portsmouth on loan.

Saviola has snubbed offers from Newcastle and Everton after being persuaded by boss Tony Adams to help out the south coast club in their relegation fight.

The 27-year-old will watch Portsmouth's Premier League home game with Aston Villa from the Fratton Park stands before sealing a six-month deal.

Saviola becomes Portsmouth's sixth signing of the January window and follows the captures of West Ham midfielder Hayden Mullins and Porto youngster Pele.

Manager Adams, who admits looking at 150 players, said: 'I would still like a midfielder and a striker and hopefully we can get them in this week. We need some bodies.

'We have a budget here. I do not have £40 million pounds to spend and most of my work will be done in the summer.'

Mullins, 29, has signed a three-and-a-half year contract after Portsmouth agreed a £1 million pounds fee with West Ham.

Attacking midfielder Pele, 19, joins on a six-month loan.

Former Barcelona and River Plate striker Saviola, nicknamed the little Rabbit, has scored 12 goals in 44 games for Argentina but has made only 16 appearances since joining Madrid in 2007.

Veteran midfielder Giggs promised new Manchester United contract

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS The Associated Press – Sun Jan 25, 12:02 pm ET

MANCHESTER, England - Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson pledged to extend the contract of 35-year-old midfielder Ryan Giggs, the club's most decorated player.

The former Wales international's contract ends in June, and he is still a key member of a team in contention for the Premier League, Champions League and two domestic cups.

"Ryan will be offered a new contract, of course," Ferguson said. "He has been fantastic for us this season - he seems to be getting even better with age.

"He could win the Footballer of the Year award and it would be fitting if he did after the career he has had. He seems to be one of those rare people who find that age and injuries don't catch up with them."

While lacking the pace to burst down the left wing as he once did, Giggs has created a new role for himself at the heart of the midfield to prolong his career with the Premier League leaders.

"I am enjoying the role," Giggs said earlier this month. "I am not able to run up and down the wing like I used to so I just use my experience, either playing off the front or in central midfield.

"I have the legs of the younger lads around me to rely on and I feel quite happy in there."

Giggs has won 10 Premier League titles, two Champions League titles, four FA Cups and two League Cups in a career stretching back to 1991.

He made a club record 759th appearance in the Champions League final win over Chelsea, surpassing Bobby Charlton.

Beckham hints at staying with AC Milan

ROME, Italy (AFP) – David Beckham left the door open to a possible long-term stay at AC Milan after scoring his first goal in Italian football in a 4-1 win at Bologna.

The victory kept Milan in the title hunt, trailing leaders and city rivals Inter Milan by six points.

Playing only his third match for Milan, Beckham wrapped things up on the hour mark with Milan's fourth, a rocket that beat Francesco Antonioli at his near post.

"I feel very good here. I arrived in a team that wanted me for years and I play for exceptional fans," said the former England captain.

"I'll stay here until March and then we'll see. Right now I'm focussed only on my football."

Beckham linked up with his Milan team-mates at the end of December before joining them on a mid-season warm weather training camp in Dubai.

He joined on loan from LA Galaxy and his deal is due to run out on March 8, after which he is expected back in Los Angeles for the start of the new Major League Soccer season.

However, he has been an instant hit in Milan for his industrious play on the right side of a three-man midfield and now the former Manchester United and Real Madrid player seems to be considering a longer stay in the Italian financial capital.

On Sunday, he struck from about 15 yards out to the right of goal to net his first successful strike for Milan.

"It was a truly special goal, just as it is special for me to be playing here," he told RAI TV.

"The important thing was to win so now we are even more confident ahead of Wednesday's game (against Genoa)."

Milan have been a more balanced and effective outfit since Beckham joined, something they had lost since Gennaro Gattuso was injured.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti is keen to keep him at the club but admits that it is out of his hands.

"It's up to him what happens. Our hands are tied because he is locked into a very precise contract," said Ancelotti.

"But as long as we have him at our disposal I see no reason not to take advantage of that because he's giving us a lot."

It's not just Beckham's presence on the right side of a three man midfield that is working well for Ancelotti, but another switch also seems to have paid dividends.

Rather than playing Kaka behind Pato and Ronaldinho, Ancelotti has pushed Kaka further forward, dropped Ronaldinho to the bench and is playing veteran Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf in the hole behind the front two.

Massimo Ambrossini is bringing some steel to the midfield.

"Right now we're playing with great effectiveness because we're making the most of Kaka and Pato's pace," said Ancelotti.

"Seedorf gives us more cover (than Ronaldinho) but we haven't forgetten when the Brazilian was playing well over the first half of the season."

However, it seems the former Barcelona and Paris St Germain player is paying for poor discipline.

"He was the one who did the least work in Dubai but in the future he can once again play with and Pato Kaka," said the coach.

He may have to wait a while, though.

If things continue in this vein, Ancelotti, who celebrated 400 games in charge of Milan against Bologna, believes his side has what it takes to be champions for the first time since 2004.

"If we carry on along this path we can win the championship," he said. "The problem right now is finding consistency."

Juande Ramos Chooses Diarra For Champions League

Juande Ramos, the Real Madrid coach, has decided that Lassana Diarra will take up Los Blancos' sole remaining Champions League squad place.

According to Marca, Ramos is convinced that Diarra is more important to the side's European fortunes than Klaas Jan Huntelaar.

Diarra has impressed in his first few games in the Spanish capital, while Huntelaar is yet to open his goal-scoring account.

The report states that the Dutchman has already accepted the decision, and only a miracle or an injury to Diarra will make Ramos change his mind.

Arjun Miglani, Goal.com

Beckham Proud Of First Milan Goal

David Beckham scored his first goal in Italy on Sunday in Milan's 4-1 win over Bologna, and Kaka added two more to keep the team in touch with Juventus and Inter Milan.

Pato provided the assist for 'Golden Balls' on the hour mark.

Beckham revealed, “It was a really special goal, and in the same way it is very special to play here. The most important thing was for us to win and now we have even more belief in ourselves ahead of Wednesday’s game.”

The midfielder added, “I feel really good here [at Milan]. I have joined a squad that has wanted me for years and for I play for exceptional fans. I will remain here until March and then I will see. For now I am only thinking about playing.”

Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com

Florentino Perez's Real Madrid Black List

According to Sport, Florentino Pérez has prepared a list of players he wants to get rid of should he reclaim the presidency at Real Madrid:

Jerzy Dudek: Will not renew his contract, since he is blocking the progression of Jordi Codina from the youth team.

Michel Salgado: Almost left the team last season, and no longer has a place in the squad.

Fabio Cannavaro: Is 35 years old and wants to finish his career at Napoli. Will be allowed to leave.

Javier Saviola: Has two years left on his contract, but neither the club nor the player intend to see them out.

Marcelo: Has not impressed, and the club will seek a transfer.

Royston Drenthe: Has great potential, but needs to play more. The club will seek to loan him out.

Javi Garcia: The arrival of Lassana Diarra, along with his own indifferent performances, means that he is surplus to requirements.

Christoph Metzelder: Has played under Juande Ramos, but is yet to convince. His future will depend on who the coach is.

Arjun Miglani, Goal.com

Wigan loan striker Mido from Middlesbrough

London - Wigan Athletic on Friday completed the loan signing of Egyptian forward Mido from Middlesbrough. The deal completes a triangle of moves that has seen Marlon King leave Hull City for Middlesbrough, with Emile Heskey on the brink of leaving Wigan for Aston Villa. Mido has scored four goals in five starts and eight substitute appearances this season, but has slid down the pecking order after an impressive start to the campaign.

Copyright, respective author or news agency

Martin O'Neill Confident That Emile Heskey Will Provide 'Great Value' For Aston Villa

Martin O'Neill today confirmed that Aston Villa have had a bid of £3.5 million accepted by Wigan Athletic for Emile Heskey, and that he is looking forward to welcoming the player in to his squad once the formality of a medical had been completed.

"We've agreed a fee with Wigan, we're pleased to say," O'Neill told Sky Sports News earlier. "Emile is making his way down. Still, obviously, he has to do a medical. I'm hoping that he will join us."

When quizzed by reporters as to the qualities he expects Heskey to bring to his Villa side, he highlighted the player's versatility and strength, things that would be very much appreciated at Villa Park, where the squad is not the largest in the Premier League.

"I think that, first of all, we're in a decent position at this minute. We need to keep the momentum going," he added.

"We have been without John Carew now for over two months. We don't have the biggest squad in the world.

"Emile will give us another option. I believe he can play up front with Gabby Agbonlahor, Villa forward], he can play with John Carew. I think that he'll be excellent for us.

"I know him from his days at Leicester City when he was a young kid.

"I think he'll be great value for us."

Wigan manager Steve Bruce has already acted quickly in his search for a replacement for Hesky at the JJB Stadium, signing Egyptian striker Mido on loan from Middlesbrough until the end of the season.

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

Cristiano Ronaldo Ignites Legends

Cristiano Ronaldo wins the FIFA World Player of the Year award.

Arsenal reject Atletico bid for Eboue

Arsenal has rejected a bid from Atletico Madrid for midfielder Emmanuel Eboue.

An offer was made to Eboue’s agent but the Gunners said they were not interested in doing a deal.

"We received an official request from Atletico Madrid which was passed to Arsenal," said agent Franjo Vranjkovic.

"I have the fax from director Ken Friar who wrote to me to say they are not interested in the offer.

"Then I received a call from Arsene Wenger, who invited me to go to England to start negotiations over a renewal.

"I see no possibility that the player will leave Arsenal."

source : tribalfootball.com

Newcastle United Sign Peter Lovenkrands

Newcastle United boss Joe Kinnear was impressed by 28-year-old Danish winger Peter Lovenkrands during a recent trial period, following his release from Schalke 04. The former Rangers player has now penned a deal at St James' Park and could make his debut in the next round of Premier League matches, when the Magpies take on Manchester City. The player says he can't wait to get started. He will wear the number 24 shirt and will initially play for the club until the end of the season. Greg Ptolomey, Goal.com

Hull City Sign Jimmy Bullard

Jimmy Bullard has signed for Premier League new boys Hull City in a £5 million deal after stalling on a new contract to stay at Fulham. The player has committed to a four and a half year deal, which expires in 2013. Tigers boss Phil Brown told the club's official website: "We're trying to improve a squad that has been competing in the Premier League and that just needed a bit of bolstering. "I think this signing shows everybody just how serious Paul Duffen, Phil Brown and Hull City are with regards to this year's Premier League."

He continued: "Jimmy is a good player, end of story."

Bullard signed for Fulham for £2 million in 2005, in a move that eventually prompted then-manager Chris Coleman to declare that it was the best £2 million he had ever spent.

The 30-year old has scored three goals this season: in the Carling Cup versus Leicester; and in the Premier League against Manchester City and Middlesbrough.

International call ups this season have been a just reward for his continued form in the Premier League, but he has yet to feature for England.

Jimmy Bullard's sense of humour is a thing of legend within England and his antics are often highlighted on Sky Sports 1 show Soccer AM.

He has been filmed in the Wigan Athletic changing room screaming: "Yeaargh!" while getting pushed around in the bin with his underwear on his head.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com

United Duo Face Three Weeks Out

Manchester United duo Anderson and Jonny Evans have been ruled out for three weeks with ankle injuries, manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed.

Midfielder Anderson and defender Evans were both injured during the Carling Cup semi-final, second leg against Derby on Tuesday.

Anderson was carried off on a stretcher after the final whistle while Evans limped through the latter stages of United's 4-2 win at Old Trafford.

source

Nani reveals frustration over peripheral role at Manchester United

Nani has revealed his disappointment at the bit-part role he has played for Manchester United this season.

The Portuguese winger has started just three times in the Premier League this season and has only been involved in 22 of United's 37 games as Alex Ferguson's team bid to defend the title and Champions League.

The 22-year-old played a much more significant role in last year's successes and was expected to play an even greater part this season, but the majority of his appearances have come in the various cup competitions United have been involved in this season.

But the £17m signing from Sporting Lisbon is determined to play a more central role in the second half of the campaign.

In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, he said: 'I would like to play more times but it hasn't been the same as last season. I was pleased with my games last season and my contribution to the team.

'This season I hoped it would be better. When I get my chances my aim is to do better than I did at the start of the season.

He added: 'I am still confident. It is difficult when you play one game and then are out for two matches. You want to stay in for a run of matches.

'You really need three, four or five games for your confidence to build and your fitness to be right. You can do anything when your confidence is high.'

source

Milan’s Gattuso Impressed With Beckham

The injured Milan midfielder Gattuso has been impressed with England midfielder Beckham since his arrival at the Rossoneri, in which time he has been somewhat of a revelation at the club.
Gattuso is out for several months following an injury to his cruciate knee ligament suffered in December, but Beckham has come in to fill his place in the team and is quickly becoming a favourite for both the players and Milan fans. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid dead ball expert is on a two-and-a-half month loan from his current club LA Galaxy in the MLS, and is set to return to the United States in time for the start of the American season. Commenting on Beckham, Rhingio told Italia 1, “He's surprised me in a positive way. He's a great professional, he arrives at training two or three hours early. He's not Kaka but he's a great player. "He's playing in my position because I'm injured but we're completely different. For sure he sets up more goals than I do, but I win back more balls.” Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com

Top New Release Football Boots - Week 3 2009

Top New Release Football Boots - Week 3 2009

Pro Direct Soccer's Top new release football boots are here! This exclusive video shows you this week's top 5 most popular football boots. These are the most in demand football boots around at the moment, the ones that YOU are sporting up and down the country and across the globe!



#5 adidas F50.9 Haze - Messi



#4 Nike T90 Laser II Obsidian/White



#3 Nike Ronaldinho Dois Yellow



#2 adidas adiPure II White/BLack



#1 Nike Mercurial Vapor IV Citron



All of these boots and hundreds more are available now from The Bootroom at prodirectsoccer.com

Park Ji-sung Proves Skeptics Wrong at United

“Is he here to sell Manchester United uniforms in Korea?”

This was the question British soccer fans asked when Park Ji-sung joined United in 2005. Former Korea coach Guus Hiddink even expressed concern that Park’s move to England might have been premature, despite having deep respect for the midfielder.

Four years later, fans and pundits have a drastically changed view of Park. The Dong-A Ilbo’s analysis of his average playing time per game from his first year with United to the past few weeks has found that Park is a major player in the world’s top-ranked soccer league.

○ Rise to starter in big games

In his first season at United in 2005-06, Park made the roster in 40 games of the Premier League, FA Cup and Carling Cup but was left out of Champions League action.

He started six of 14 games against the top seven clubs (based on final season rankings), playing 39.8 minutes on average per match.

In comparison, he made the roster in 13 matches versus five low-ranking clubs, starting 10 and averaging 68.2 minutes per game.

Thus, Park played mostly in matches versus low ranking clubs rather than the league’s Big Three of Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool early in his United career.

He played in 24 games in 2006-07 and 17 last season due to a number of injuries big and small. He did appear more against strong teams in those seasons, however.

Park made the roster in six matches versus the top seven clubs in the 2006-07 season, and started four of them. He also started four of the seven matches he played in against the top clubs last season.

This season, however, Park has fully arrived as a key United player. He has played in all seven matches versus the top seven clubs (based on rankings as of Jan. 20) this season, starting five of them and averaging 58.6 minutes per match.

Park also played in all three matches against the Big Three, averaging 84.7 minutes per game. In comparison, he played in four of seven matches versus low-ranking teams, averaging 46.3 minutes per game.

○ Still evolving

The midfielder is consolidating his status as a big-game player in performance as well.

Early after his Premiership debut, he was oftentimes less than impressive.

In the 2005-06 season, Park received the lowest player rating of four from Sky Sports in a 3-0 loss to Chelsea that secured the league title for the Blues.

This season, however, Park scored his team’s only goal in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea in their first meeting. In the second, he earned a rating of eight, the second highest among his teammates, as United cruised to victory, 3-0.

Park’s upgraded status in his club is also demonstrated by his play in the Champions League. He made the roster for all eight matches in the 2005-06 season but did not start in any of the games.

Last season, however, he played the full 90 minutes in four Champions League matches, including the quarterfinal versus AS Roma and the semifinal versus FC Barcelona.

Park, however, has plenty of competition for his position of attacking midfielder, namely from Darren Fletcher, Ryan Giggs, Luis Nani and Zoran Tosic. He also must score more goals, hitting the back of the net just once this season.

Nonetheless, Park has proven wrong the naysayers who originally brushed him off as a marketing ploy to sell more United shirts in Korea and Asia.

source

Kaka 'wants to play at Real, says Beckham'

MADRID (AFP) – Brazilian midfielder Kaka, who rejected a record-breaking transfer from Manchester City, wants to play at Real Madrid next season, his AC Milan teammate David Beckham was quoted as saying Tuesday.

"Kaka wants to go to Real Madrid and not to City. I think he will become a Real player in June. I think someone has called him and that Kaka has made his decision," the former England captain told a friend recently, according to Spanish sports daily AS.

The paper said last week Kaka asked Beckham, who played for Real between 2003 and 2007, for information about the defending Spanish giants, the paper added.

Former Real president Ramon Calderon, who stepped down on Friday over allegations that he rigged voting at the club's last annual general assembly, promised to sign Kaka during his successful campaign to lead the club.

Real remains interested in signing the 26-year-old, according to AS.

"This is the best moment to recruit Kaka, he is the player who would benefit the team the most," an unnamed Real source told the newspaper.

Italian prime minister and AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi said late Monday that Kaka had decided to stay with the Italian side, having rejected a bid from City that was said to be of 100 million pounds (111 million euros/147 million US dollars).

Kaka is under contract with Milan through 2013.

I followed my heart, says Milan's Kaka

MILAN, Italy (AFP) – Brazilian superstar Kaka has revealed that he followed his heart in choosing to stay at AC Milan rather than take up an offer of a reported 15 million euros a season to join Manchester City.

Milan president and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi announced the news late on Monday to end one of the most dramatic transfer sagas of all time.

Moneybags City, owned by the Abu Dhabi Group, had bid a reported world record 100 million euros for the former World Player of the Year and Milan gave the 26-year-old permission to talk to the English Premier League club.

But Kaka has told Milan's official TV channel that the Italian giants' fans had played a significant role in convincing him to stay.

"All the messages I received convinced me to choose with my heart and I think in the end that's what I did. It was definitely not a financial decision," he said.

"There were bits of information, claims, a lot of speculation which over these last few days even created a bad impression of my father.

"That's not the case, I've never argued with my father. I always make decisions within the family, my wife has also been wonderful, she helped me a lot and has always supported me in my decisions.

"My family have been great and never tried to push me one way or another. In the end it is my history which has been decisive, where my legacy is and where in reality my heart is."

Kaka denied that he was using the interest from City to try to get a pay rise at Milan, where he is already supposedly the second highest paid player in Italy behind Inter Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"There have also been claims made that every time offers are made for me it's because I want to renew my contract," he added.

"That's not true. Every time a team has come and proposed something to me it's Milan who have tried to please me.

"For this I have to thank everyone who works at Milan."

Kaka, somewhat diplomatically, described Berlusconi and Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani as incredible people and thanked Milan's technical director and his compatriot Leonardo, a former player at the club.

"He is more than a friend, someone who is always close by," he said. "Right now I don't want to change anything, I want some peace and quiet."

A devout evangelical Christian who removes his jersey to display a T-shirt bearing the message 'I Belong to Jesus' whenever Milan win something, Kaka revealed he had prayed a lot over these last few days.

"It was an emotional and unforgettable night," he said about Monday. "My team-mates have been great, they supported me, they touched me."

Fans who on Monday had protested against the proposed sale outside Kaka's home and Milan's headquarters on Monday quickly began celebrating.

"He's staying with us, he's staying with us," went up the cheer after news broke that the Brazilian had rejected City.

Berlusconi, who had previously said Milan could not stand in Kaka's way with such a sum of money on the table, praised the attacking midfielder for rejecting financial riches.

"We're all delighted," he said. "But he didn't want to leave even for a perfect offer from Manchester (City) and he said no without even knowing what the offer was.

"Hence, he is staying with us and we can't be anything but delighted because money is important but there are other things more important than money."

And the Italian prime minister insisted Milan had never accepted City's bid.

"No, we told Kaka to think about it, as we did with (Andrei) Shevchenko (when he joined Chelsea), we said we didn't want to prohibit someone from considering an offer that was double what Milan could pay, also because it was clear we could not make a counter offer because had we, we would have had to do likewise with all the other players and that wouldn't have been logical or in our budget.

"Kaka never expected us to make an offer and as a fan I have to say I'm delighted."

Galliani for his part said Milan's fans had to thank Berlusconi for not taking the money on offer.

"Once more the fans should thank president Berlusconi for his economic strength," he said.

"Because there was a strong temptation in front of us and a number that was a stratospheric world record."

AIG will not renew Man Utd sponsorship

LONDON (Reuters) - American insurance giant AIG said on Wednesday it would not renew its shirt sponsorship deal with European and world club football champions Manchester United.

The American company also said in a statement e-mailed to Reuters that it was "in active discussions" with the club regarding the current four-year $100 million (73 million pound) deal, which runs until next May.

Once the world's biggest insurer by market value, AIG averted bankruptcy in September last year with an $85 billion federal bailout, which later swelled to about $152 billion.

The company has started selling assets to raise funds to repay a part of the government bailout.

"Following the loan from the Fed, AIG has been reviewing all its sponsorships to identify those essential to maximizing the value of AIG businesses," AIG said in a statement emailed to Reuters.

"In October, AIG told Manchester United that it is not renewing its sponsorship. Further, AIG has been in active discussions with the club regarding the current contract, which expires in May 2010," it added.

Manchester United was not immediately available for comment.

The news comes a day after it emerged that the English Premier League champions had approached Indian company Sahara as a potential replacement for AIG.

Football Boots/Soccer Cleats: Top new releases - Week 2 2009

#5 Nike Mercurial Vapor IV - charcoal
The Nike Mercurial Vapor IV is strong, light and packed with innovation, its a revolutionary football boot with one thing in mind: pure speed. Worn by the world's deadliest football players, every contour and feature has been engineered to the highest Aerodynamic specifications.

#4 Puma v1.08 - silver
The Puma V1.08 has become a popular boot over the past seasons with players such as David Bentley, Nicolas Anelka and Samuel Eto'o wearing V1's.

#3 adidas adiPure II - black
This is a football boot that draws in the very best design features from a long line of adidas football heritage and is the mark of a player looking for the pure timeless quality that would grace any football pitch in the world.

#2 Nike T90 Laser II - white/blue
Introducing yet another colourway of this highly popular footbal boot that bring Laser accuracy to another level. The Nike Total 90 Laser II is the new boot choice of England & Manchester United's Wayne Rooney and Spain & Liverpool's Fernando Torres.

#1 adidas Predator Lite ClimaCool DB
As worn by David Beckham, become the king of the pitch in the new adidas Predator Lite Climacool DB, this top boot feature an adidas TRAXION outsole, exchangeable PowerPulse insole and an elite Predator design that takes no prisoners.

Manchester United 09/10 kit - a Historic 1909 remake

In honour of a player who helped them win their first major trophy, Manchester United will play in remake of the historic kit from 1909 next 09/10 season.

Players from United will wear home shirts, which feature a large white V-shape sash down the front.

The kit is based upon a 100-year-old design supplied by one of the club's own players, Billy Meredith, before the 1909 FA Cup Final. (As a sideline Meredith ran a sports shop and became the club's kit supplier. For the Wembley final with Bristol City, both sides had to change from their usual red shirts.)

Billy Meredith's trademark was a toothpick he chewed while playing; he believed it assisted his concentration. He originally used chewing tobacco, however the cleaners refused to wash the spit off his shirts!

United's kit manufacturer Nike have been asked to rework Meredith's shirt - using high-tech materials rather than heavyweight cotton and with a white sash on a red shirt instead of 1909's red-on-white.

A Man Utd insider said: "The club felt bringing back this old kit was the perfect way for United to mark 100 years of success."

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Kaka Signs For Manchester City - Arabian Reports

Kaka has been linked with the richest club in the world for several months now, but the speculation of a possible move really began to heat up earlier this week.

'Arabian Business' now claim that a deal has been sealed, which will see Manchester City pay Milan around €112 million, while Kaka will earn €380,000 per week.

This will smash Zinedine Zidane's transfer fee record from 2001 when he moved to Real Madrid from Juventus for €76m. Kaka also becomes the highest paid player in football history.

Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour is said to have told friends at 1500 CET that Kaka has signed for Manchester City, although there has been no official confirmation from the club, or from Milan for that matter.

Mansour took over the reigns at Eastlands in September, but he funded the €37m signing of Kaka's Brazilian compatriot Robinho on August 31 summer deadline day.

The Press Association claims that sources within Manchester City have denied that a deal has been done, although no official statement has been made.

Anthony Sormani

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pic : (AFP/File/Damien Meyer)

Calderon confirms resignation as Real president

MADRID, Jan 16 (Reuters) - An emotional Ramon Calderon confirmed media reports that he had resigned as president of Spanish champions Real Madrid in a news conference at the Bernabeu on Friday.

Calderon, who was elected to the post in 2006, had been under pressure to go since Marca newspaper published allegations earlier this week of irregularities at the club's general assembly last month.

"Against the recommendations of my board I have decided to step down from the presidency," Calderon said.

"I have committed errors but not irregularities. I go with my head held high."

The 57-year-old lawyer will be replaced by Vicente Boluda, who takes charge until a presidential election can be held in the close season.

With tears in his eyes and struggling to hold his emotions in check, Calderon read from a pre-prepared speech.

"I am not a coward and have nothing to hide," he said. "I hope that by offering up my head my going will help placate the wider Real Madrid public.

"They have been convulsed by daily stories put together and sent out from the media that show absolute contempt for all known moral codes."

He defended his record at the helm which included two consecutive league titles, and two trophies with the basketball section, and reiterated that he knew nothing about the events that had occurred at last month's assembly.

The allegations in Marca said unauthorised persons had gained access to the club's assembly on Dec. 7 and their presence had helped to swing votes on key issues in favour of the management.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Calderon said two Real officials involved in organising the assembly had resigned and he would probably not stand for re-election when his four-year mandate ended in 2010.

Spanish media reported on Friday that three club delegates who attended the general assembly had started legal proceedings to have the agreements passed at the event annulled in the light of recent developments.

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AP Photo/Paul White

We move forward with or without Kaka - Ancelotti

MILAN, Jan 16 (Reuters) - AC Milan will move forward whether they keep hold of Kaka or not, coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Friday.

Manchester City are talking with Milan about a possible deal and media reports say the Premier League club have bid at least 100 million euros ($133 million) for the Brazilian.

"Talks are happening. I hope I can coach him for the long term. But if he leaves our objectives do not change," Ancelotti told a news conference. "Our squad remains competitive even if we must lose a great player."

The playmaker said earlier this week he wanted to "grow old" at Milan but City have sounded confident that they can persuade the Serie A club to sell the 26-year-old.

"It is a decision that will have to be made by the club together with the player," Ancelotti added.

"The club is considering the offer that has been presented. It is normal that great importance is attached to him given the role he has at Milan."

Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani met City officials to discuss Kaka's future on Tuesday and media speculation has since gone into overdrive despite no outcome to the talks.

City, in the bottom of half of the Premier League and with very limited pedigree in England let alone Europe, are the richest club in the world after being taken over by the Abu Dhabi United Group.

Ancelotti said they deserved to bid for the world's top players as much as anyone else.

"You couldn't imagine it 20 years ago. Big investors are entering football and therefore it is normal and correct to consider (the bid)," he said.

Milan finished fifth in Serie A last season meaning Kaka, signed from Sao Paulo in 2003, is not playing in the Champions League this term having inspired the Rossoneri to the trophy in 2007.

"We must get back into the Champions League and win the UEFA Cup," added Ancelotti, whose side are third in Serie A.

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Calderon quits as Real Madrid president

MADRID, Jan 16 (Reuters) - Ramon Calderon resigned as president of Spanish champions Real Madrid on Friday after an emergency board meeting at the Bernabeu, Spanish media have reported.

Calderon, who has held the post since 2006, has been under pressure to go since Marca newspaper published allegations earlier this week of irregularities at the club's general assembly last month.

No one was available for comment from the club but a news conference has been called for 1700GMT at the Bernabeu, when Calderon will speak to the media, a statement said on the club's website (www.realmadrid.com).

The 57-year-old, who has denied any wrongdoing, was close to resigning on Thursday night under pressure from several members of the Real management board, reports said.

It is predicted that Vicente Boluda, one of the club's vice presidents, will take the helm until new elections can be called.

The allegations in Marca this week said unauthorised persons had gained access to the club's assembly on Dec. 7 and their presence had helped swing votes on key issues in favour of the management.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Calderon said two Real officials involved in organising the assembly had resigned and he would probably not stand for re-election when his four-year mandate ended in 2010.

He ruled out stepping down immediately and insisted neither he nor any other member of the management board were involved in any irregularities.

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Manucho Loan Deal Sealed

Hull City have completed the signing of Manchester United striker Manucho on loan for the rest of the season.

Manucho goes straight into the squad for Saturday's clash with Arsenal after all the relevant paperwork was completed ahead of the midday deadline and he has been allocated squad number 28.

Manucho, full name Mateus Alberto Contreiras Goncalves, joined United in December 2007 following a successful trial with the Old Trafford club.

The 25-year-old, who had previously played for Petro Atletico in his native Angola and scored 34 goals in 78 appearances, spent the latter weeks of the 2007/08 campaign on loan with Greek club Panathinaikos and netted four times in seven games.

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new ADIDAS Beckham's Predator

The new Adidas boots of David Beckham of AC Milan are seen during a training session during the AC Milan Winter Training Camp at the Al Nasr Sports Club on January 4, 2009 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.